EE 5G ‘Connected Stadium’ boost
December 14, 2020
By Colin Mann
London Stadium has switched on a new 5G network, offering fans a fully connected experience as they return to the venue. Multiplay telco EE says its 5G network brings increased speed and reliability to the East London stadium, enabling customers to stay connected when attending events.
The enhanced speeds of 5G will improve the event day experience for attendees, adding more capacity on site to ensure reliable and consistent mobile usage. Added to the recent installation of HD WiFi, fans will have access to fast and stable download speeds no matter where they are in the stadium. With a capacity of up to 80,000 for events and an ever-increasing demand for online access, the enhancement to the stadium’s connectivity will support its position as the country’s most successful multi-use venue.
In addition, 5G capability will offer benefits for the day-to-day operations, safety, and security of the venue. The advanced speeds will support the stadium’s recent move to cashless transactions, allowing for quicker and hygienic payments at point of sale. The improved connectivity will give more accurate access to location services and the opportunity to introduce multiple technologies which can be used simultaneously across the stadium and the immediate surrounds of Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
“We want to give our fans the best possible experience when they visit our stadium, the upgrade to 5G means that whether you’re coming to London Stadium to watch the football, baseball, rugby, athletics or a concert, you will always have the ability to be connected and have the best that technology has to offer,” advised Graham Gilmore, CEO, London Stadium.
“5G is the next generation of mobile technology, enabling people to stay connected when they need it most,” explained Adis Omeragic from EE’s Special Projects team. “The speeds and reliability of EE’s 5G network at London Stadium will enhance the mobile experience for visitors, ensuring they can stay in touch with friends and family, and share highlights from their visit in real time.”
The 5G switch-on at London Stadium follows EE’s installation of 4G at the Olympic Stadium for the 2012 games.
Built to host London 2012, the former Olympic Stadium at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park is home to Premier League football club West Ham United and UK Athletics. With rock concerts through the intervening months, the versatile venue has hosted the Rugby World Cup in 2015, international and domestic Rugby Union, The Race of Champions, the RFL Four Nations and was home for the first Major League Baseball games to be played in Europe in 2019.